The Montclair State University football team looked to improve its lackluster record and find a win in their conference mark on homecoming, Saturday, Oct. 29.
The stands were filled on the home side for this football game.
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
Rocky The Red Hawk was out in full force, helping to hype up the crowd.
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
The cheerleaders were excited to be a part of this special game.
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
But with a missed extra point after a rushing touchdown by sophomore quarterback Mason Murdock, the Red Hawks fell to the Captains of Christopher Newport University by one point, 14-13.
Mason Murdock runs for a touchdown.
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
The day was filled with events going on throughout campus, from the tailgate outside of Freeman, to Sam Mills being honored. Head coach Rick Giancola and Melanie Mills, Sam’s wife, gave speeches on his behalf.
Melanie Mills walks out with the captains of the football team to honor the late Sam Mills
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
Head coach Rick Giancola and Melanie Mills share a moment after the ceremony.
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
Melanie Mills, Sam Mills III and Rick Giancola stand together during the pregame ceremony. Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
President Jonathan Koppell was there for the pregame ceremony honoring Sam Mills.
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
Sam Mills was honored with a new plaque before the game.
Brie Killeen | The Montclarion
The game started off strong for the Montclair State defense with graduate student defensive back Mike Ramos forcing a fumble on the opening kickoff. The Red Hawks could not capitalize on that play, but later in the game, sophomore linebacker Nicholas Burgess picked off the Captains and ran down to the other end of the field for a touchdown.
The Red Hawks could not produce too much offense, which helped the Captains capitalize. After Christopher Newport had a downed player, who was eventually stretchered off, Montclair State had their mistake at the end of the game. The Captains add to their undefeated conference record and the Red Hawks look to end their season on a good note.
